Numismatic

1926 Buffalo Nickel XF

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The 1926 five-cent piece stands as a classic example of United States coinage, showcasing a design by James Earle Fraser that departs from traditional allegorical figures. The obverse presents a highly detailed profile of a Native American, accompanied by the single, clear inscription of the word LIBERTY. This portrait captures a rugged, lifelike quality that defined a new era in American numismatic art. On the reverse, a massive American bison stands on a raised mound, dominating the field. The inscriptions include the traditional motto E PLURIBUS UNUM and the denomination FIVE CENTS. Because this coin was produced at the Philadelphia Mint, it does not bear a mint mark, leaving the focus entirely on Fraser's powerful, textured artwork. This particular specimen survives in Extra Fine condition, preserving the bold lines and fine details of both the portrait and the bison.